Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A device to write on a media card, the media card including a passive e-paper display portion and a non-e-paper portion, which comprises a computer readable storage medium, wherein the device comprises: a read/write portion including: a first component including a computer readable computer storage medium reader to at least read the computer readable storage medium on the non-e-paper-portion of the media card; a second component including a first ion head to write, via non-contact application of airborne charges, to the passive e-paper display portion of the media card during relative movement at a first velocity between the second component and the media card, the second component to perform the writing after the first component is to perform the reading; and a third component including a second ion head to erase, via non-contact application of airborne charges, the passive e-paper display portion, before operation of the second component, during relative movement at a second velocity between the third component and the media card, wherein the second velocity differs from the first velocity by at least one of speed and direction.
A device is designed to write on a media card that includes both a passive e-paper display portion and a non-e-paper portion containing a computer-readable storage medium. The device operates in three stages: reading, erasing, and writing. First, a computer-readable storage medium reader reads data from the non-e-paper portion of the media card. Next, an ion head erases the passive e-paper display portion by applying airborne charges in a non-contact manner, with the erasing process occurring at a different speed or direction compared to the subsequent writing step. Finally, another ion head writes to the passive e-paper display portion by applying airborne charges during relative movement between the ion head and the media card. The writing process occurs after the reading and erasing steps are completed. This device enables dynamic updating of the e-paper display while ensuring proper data handling from the storage medium. The non-contact writing and erasing methods allow for precise and efficient modification of the display content without physical contact, reducing wear and tear on the media card.
2. The device of claim 1 , comprising a housing in which the first component is located, wherein the computer readable storage medium reader comprises an integrated circuit chip reader to read an integrated circuit chip of the computer readable storage medium of the media card, wherein the first component is generally stationary, and wherein housing comprises a slot in which the media card is at least partially insertable to position the integrated circuit chip of computer readable storage medium of the media card to be co-located with, and in operative communication with, the first component.
This invention relates to a device for interfacing with a media card containing a computer-readable storage medium, specifically addressing the challenge of securely and reliably reading data from an integrated circuit chip embedded in the media card. The device includes a housing that encloses a first component, which is generally stationary and designed to interact with the media card. The housing features a slot that allows the media card to be partially or fully inserted, positioning the integrated circuit chip of the storage medium in close proximity to the first component. The device further includes a computer-readable storage medium reader, implemented as an integrated circuit chip reader, to establish operative communication with the chip. This configuration ensures precise alignment and stable contact between the reader and the chip, facilitating efficient data transfer while protecting the components from external interference. The stationary nature of the first component enhances reliability, reducing wear and misalignment issues common in movable mechanisms. The design is particularly suited for applications requiring robust and secure data access, such as financial transactions, identification systems, or secure authentication processes.
3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the housing comprises a tray moveable relative to an exterior of the housing and on which the second component and the third component are both located to cause the movement of the second component and the third component relative to the passive e-paper display portion of the media card while the integrated circuit chip of the computer readable storage medium of the media card remains generally co-located with the first component.
This invention relates to a media card with a movable tray housing components for interacting with an e-paper display. The media card includes a housing containing a passive e-paper display portion and an integrated circuit chip on a computer-readable storage medium. The housing has a tray that moves relative to the exterior, carrying a second component and a third component. When the tray moves, these components shift relative to the e-paper display, while the integrated circuit chip remains stationary. The second component may be a sensor or actuator, and the third component may be a power source or additional circuitry. The tray's movement allows dynamic interaction with the e-paper display without altering the chip's position, enabling features like adjustable display settings or user input detection. The design ensures the chip stays fixed for reliable data access while other components adjust for functionality. This configuration is useful in smart cards, identification cards, or other media cards requiring interactive displays with movable internal components.
4. The device of claim 3 , wherein the third component operates during movement of the tray in a first direction outwardly away from the exterior of the housing and wherein the second component is to operate during movement of the tray in a second direction inwardly towards the exterior of the housing, and wherein the slot of the housing is to removably receive the media card in a position in which an imaging side of the passive e-paper display portion of the media card faces toward the movable tray and in which an opposite viewing side of the media card faces away from the tray and is to be visible during movement of the tray to allow viewing of the imaging of the passive e-paper display portion of the media card.
This invention relates to a device for displaying and handling media cards, particularly those with passive e-paper displays. The problem addressed is the need for a secure yet accessible way to view and interact with media cards, such as those used in digital photo frames or electronic displays, while ensuring the display remains visible during movement. The device includes a housing with a slot designed to removably receive a media card. The media card has a passive e-paper display portion with an imaging side and an opposite viewing side. When inserted, the imaging side faces a movable tray inside the housing, while the viewing side remains visible from the exterior. The tray moves in two directions: outward for card insertion/removal and inward for secure storage or display. A third component operates during outward movement, while a second component operates during inward movement, ensuring smooth and controlled motion. The design allows the passive e-paper display to remain visible during tray movement, enabling real-time viewing of the displayed content. The system ensures proper alignment and protection of the media card while maintaining visibility of the display.
5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the second component is spaced longitudinally apart along a workflow path by a first distance from the first component with the second component following the first component in the workflow path to operate after the first component, and wherein the first distance between the first component and the second component is selected to cause both reading on the computer readable storage medium of the media card and erasing of the entire passive e-paper display portion of the media card to be completed before the writing on the passive e-paper display portion of the media cared is commenced via the first ion head of the second component.
This invention relates to a system for processing media cards, specifically addressing the coordination between reading data from a computer-readable storage medium and updating a passive e-paper display on the same card. The problem solved is ensuring that data reading and display erasure are fully completed before new content is written to the e-paper display, preventing data corruption or incomplete updates. The system includes at least two components arranged along a workflow path. The first component reads data from the storage medium on the media card, while the second component handles display updates. The second component is positioned downstream from the first component at a specific longitudinal distance along the workflow path. This distance is carefully selected to ensure that the reading and erasure processes are fully completed before the second component begins writing new content to the e-paper display using an ion head. The timing is synchronized to avoid conflicts between operations, ensuring reliable data integrity and display updates. The system may include additional components for further processing steps, such as writing data to the storage medium or additional display updates, with similar spacing and timing considerations to maintain workflow efficiency.
6. The device of claim 5 , wherein the computer readable storage medium reader of the first component comprises a magnetic read head to read a magnetic strip of the computer readable storage medium of the media card, and wherein the first component is generally located adjacent the third component.
This invention relates to a device for reading and processing data from a media card, such as a magnetic stripe card. The device addresses the challenge of securely and efficiently reading data from such cards while ensuring proper alignment and functionality of its components. The device includes a first component with a computer-readable storage medium reader, specifically a magnetic read head designed to read a magnetic strip on the media card. This read head is optimized for accurate data extraction from the magnetic stripe, ensuring reliable performance. The first component is positioned adjacent to a third component, which likely serves as a processing or control unit, facilitating seamless data transfer and processing after reading. The device may also include a second component, which could be a display or input interface, allowing user interaction or feedback during the reading process. The overall design ensures that the magnetic read head is properly aligned with the media card's magnetic stripe, minimizing errors and improving data retrieval efficiency. The adjacent placement of the first and third components optimizes space utilization and signal integrity, enhancing the device's performance in applications such as payment processing, access control, or data verification.
7. The device of claim 5 , wherein the computer readable storage medium reader of the first component comprises a bar code reader to read a bar code of the computer readable storage medium of the media card, and the third component is generally co-located with the first component.
This invention relates to a device for reading computer-readable storage media, particularly in a system where media cards are used. The device addresses the challenge of efficiently and accurately reading data from storage media, such as barcodes, in a compact and integrated setup. The device includes a first component with a computer-readable storage medium reader, which is specifically designed as a barcode reader to scan and interpret barcodes on media cards. The barcode reader captures data encoded in the barcode, which may include identification, authentication, or configuration information. The device also includes a third component that is generally co-located with the first component, meaning they are physically positioned close to each other, likely within the same housing or module. This co-location ensures efficient data transfer and synchronization between the components. The first component may also include a processor to process the data read from the barcode, while the third component may include a communication interface to transmit or receive data. The device is designed to work with media cards that contain computer-readable storage media, such as memory chips or other storage elements, where the barcode serves as a quick and reliable way to access or verify the stored data. The system ensures seamless integration between the barcode reader and the media card, improving data retrieval and system efficiency.
8. The device of claim 1 , comprising: a variable content module to retrieve variable content after the reading via the first component but prior to the writing via the second component, wherein the variable content includes at least one of user-related transaction information and promotional information, and wherein the variable content is at least partially based on information read from the computer readable storage medium of the media card via the first component; and an image generation module to generate an image based on the variable data, wherein the image is writable by the second component onto the passive e-paper display portion of the media card.
This invention relates to a device for dynamically updating content on a media card with a passive e-paper display. The problem addressed is the static nature of traditional media cards, which lack the ability to display personalized or time-sensitive information after initial issuance. The device includes a variable content module that retrieves dynamic data, such as user-specific transaction details or promotional offers, after reading information from the media card's storage medium. This data is at least partially derived from the stored information. An image generation module then creates an image from this variable content, which is subsequently written onto the passive e-paper display portion of the media card. This allows the card to display up-to-date, contextually relevant information without requiring active power. The system enables real-time customization of card displays for applications like banking, loyalty programs, or event access, enhancing user engagement and functionality. The device ensures seamless integration between the card's storage medium and display, providing a flexible solution for dynamic content management.
9. The device of claim 8 , comprising: an identification verification module to receive user identification information, to verify a user identity, and to operate between a first time of operation of the first component and a later second time of operation of the second component.
This invention relates to a device for secure user authentication in a multi-component system. The device addresses the problem of ensuring user identity verification is performed at specific operational stages of different system components, enhancing security in systems where multiple components operate sequentially or independently. The device includes an identification verification module that receives user identification information, such as biometric data, credentials, or tokens, to authenticate the user. This module operates between a first time of operation of a first component and a later second time of operation of a second component. The first component may be a primary system module, such as a login interface or access control system, while the second component could be a secondary system, such as a transaction processor or data access module. The verification module ensures that user identity is confirmed before the second component is activated, preventing unauthorized access or actions. The device may also include a first component configured to perform an initial operation, such as initiating a session or request, and a second component that performs a subsequent operation, such as executing a transaction or granting access. The identification verification module operates as an intermediary, ensuring that the second component only functions after successful user authentication. This sequential verification process enhances security by reducing the risk of unauthorized access between component operations. The system may be used in financial transactions, secure data access, or multi-stage authentication workflows.
10. The device of claim 1 , wherein the second component is spaced longitudinally apart along a workflow path by a first distance from the first component with the second component located after the first component in the workflow path to operate after the first component, and wherein the first distance is at least equal to or greater than a length of the passive e-paper display portion of the media card.
This invention relates to a device with multiple components arranged along a workflow path, addressing the need for precise spacing and sequencing in automated systems. The device includes a first component and a second component positioned longitudinally apart along the workflow path, with the second component located downstream from the first component to operate after the first component. The spacing between the two components is at least equal to or greater than the length of a passive e-paper display portion of a media card processed by the device. The first component performs an initial operation on the media card, such as printing or encoding, while the second component performs a subsequent operation, such as verification or further processing. The spacing ensures sufficient time and distance for the media card to transition between operations without interference, particularly accommodating the size of the e-paper display portion. This design optimizes workflow efficiency and reliability in automated media card handling systems.
11. The device of claim 10 , wherein the first component is separate from, and independent of, the third component.
A system for modular electronic device assembly addresses the challenge of integrating multiple functional components into a compact, customizable form factor. The system includes a first component with a first housing and a first functional module, a second component with a second housing and a second functional module, and a third component with a third housing and a third functional module. The first and second components are mechanically and electrically coupled to form a first assembly, while the third component is mechanically and electrically coupled to the first assembly to form a second assembly. The first component is physically separate from and operates independently of the third component, allowing for modular expansion or replacement without disrupting the first assembly's functionality. The system enables flexible configuration of electronic devices by combining different functional modules, such as processors, memory, or input/output interfaces, into a unified structure. This modular approach simplifies manufacturing, reduces costs, and enhances device customization for various applications.
12. The device of claim 1 , wherein a second speed of the second velocity is substantially greater than a first speed of the first velocity.
A system for controlling the movement of a device involves adjusting the speed of at least two different velocities to optimize performance. The device operates by moving at a first velocity and a second velocity, where the second velocity is significantly faster than the first. This speed differential ensures efficient operation, particularly in applications requiring rapid transitions between different movement states. The system may include mechanisms to monitor and regulate these velocities, ensuring the second speed remains substantially greater than the first. This design is useful in applications where precise control over movement dynamics is critical, such as in robotic systems, automated machinery, or transportation devices. The invention addresses the need for improved speed management in dynamic environments, enhancing responsiveness and energy efficiency. By maintaining a distinct speed difference between the two velocities, the system avoids operational inefficiencies and ensures smooth transitions between movement phases. The technology is particularly valuable in industries where rapid acceleration and deceleration are necessary, such as manufacturing, logistics, or autonomous vehicle navigation. The invention provides a solution to the challenge of balancing speed and control in mechanical systems, ensuring optimal performance without compromising stability or precision.
13. The device of claim 5 , wherein the first component is separate from, and independent of, the third component.
A system for modular electronic device assembly addresses the challenge of integrating multiple functional components while maintaining flexibility in design and manufacturing. The system includes a first component, a second component, and a third component, each performing distinct functions. The first component is physically and operationally separate from the third component, allowing independent operation and customization. The second component interfaces with both the first and third components, enabling coordinated functionality while preserving modularity. This separation ensures that the first and third components can be developed, tested, or replaced independently without affecting the overall system. The design supports scalability, as additional components can be added or removed without disrupting existing functionality. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring adaptable configurations, such as consumer electronics, industrial automation, or medical devices, where modularity enhances maintainability and reduces production costs. The independent operation of the first and third components allows for specialized optimization of each, improving performance and reliability. The second component acts as an intermediary, facilitating communication and data exchange between the first and third components while maintaining their separation. This modular approach simplifies troubleshooting and upgrades, as individual components can be serviced or upgraded without affecting the entire system. The system's flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications where customization and adaptability are critical.
14. The device of claim 1 , wherein the third component is to erase the passive e-paper display portion of the media card via non-contact application of airborne charges.
This invention relates to media cards with electronic paper displays and a method for erasing the display portion without physical contact. The device includes a media card with a passive electronic paper display and a third component designed to erase the display by applying airborne charges. The passive e-paper display portion is updated by selectively applying electrostatic charges to the display surface, altering the visual state of the display. The third component generates and directs these charges through the air, eliminating the need for direct contact with the display. This non-contact erasure method simplifies the process of clearing or updating the display, reducing wear and tear on the device. The invention may also include additional components for generating, controlling, or directing the airborne charges to ensure precise and efficient erasure. The system may further incorporate mechanisms to prevent unintended erasure or interference with other electronic components on the media card. This technology is particularly useful in applications where frequent display updates are required, such as digital signage, smart cards, or reusable labels, where maintaining display clarity and functionality over time is critical. The non-contact erasure method enhances durability and reliability while simplifying the user experience.
15. A writing station to write on a transaction media card, the transaction media card including a passive e-paper display portion and a non-e-paper portion, which includes a computer readable storage medium, wherein the writing station comprises: a read/write portion including: a first component comprising a computer readable storage medium reader to at least read the computer readable storage medium of the transaction media card; and a second component comprising a first ion head to at least write, via non-contact application of airborne charges, to the passive e-paper display portion of the media card; a positioning mechanism to control relative movement between the read/write portion and the transaction media card, including causing the movement to: occur at a first velocity when operating the first component to read the computer readable storage medium of the non-e-paper portion of the transaction media card; and occur at a second velocity, different than the first velocity, when operating the second component to write to the passive e-paper display portion; and a control portion including a variable content function to obtain variable content at least during relative movement of the transaction media card via the positioning mechanism and an image generation function to generate an image for writing, via the second component, to the passive e-paper display portion of the transaction media card based on the obtained variable content.
A writing station is designed to interact with a transaction media card that includes both a passive e-paper display portion and a non-e-paper portion containing a computer-readable storage medium. The station features a read/write portion with two components: a storage medium reader to read data from the card's non-e-paper portion and an ion head to write on the passive e-paper display using non-contact application of airborne charges. A positioning mechanism controls the relative movement between the card and the read/write portion, adjusting speed based on the operation—faster for reading the storage medium and slower for writing to the e-paper display. The control portion includes a variable content function to obtain dynamic content during card movement and an image generation function to create an image for writing to the e-paper display based on this content. This system enables efficient, context-aware writing and reading operations on transaction cards with dual-functionality displays and storage.
16. The writing station of claim 15 , wherein the control portion includes an identity verification function to verify an identity of a user after the reading and at least during operation of the variable content function.
A system for secure document processing involves a writing station that reads and writes variable content on documents, such as checks or forms, to prevent fraud. The station includes a control portion that manages the reading and writing operations, ensuring that the content is accurately processed. To enhance security, the control portion incorporates an identity verification function that confirms the identity of a user after the initial reading phase and continues to verify the user throughout the document processing. This verification ensures that only authorized individuals can modify or approve the content, reducing the risk of unauthorized alterations. The system may also include additional features, such as optical character recognition (OCR) for reading existing content and a printing mechanism for applying new content. The identity verification function may use biometric data, authentication codes, or other secure methods to confirm the user's identity. This approach improves document security by ensuring that only verified users can perform critical operations, such as signing or approving financial transactions. The system is particularly useful in environments where document integrity and user authentication are essential, such as banking or legal applications.
17. The writing station of claim 15 , wherein the read/write portion includes a third component to erase the passive e-paper display portion of the transaction media card and co-located with the first component, wherein the first velocity of relative movement between the transaction media and the co-located first and third components includes a first speed and a first direction generally the same as a second direction of the second velocity, the first speed being substantially faster than a second speed of the second velocity, and wherein the second component is longitudinally spaced apart from the co-located first and third components and the second component follows the co-located first and third components in a workflow path.
This invention relates to a writing station for transaction media cards featuring passive e-paper displays. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently updating and erasing information on such cards during processing workflows. The writing station includes a read/write portion with multiple components. A first component writes data to the e-paper display at a first velocity, while a second component reads data at a second velocity. A third component, co-located with the first component, erases the e-paper display. The first and third components move relative to the card at a faster speed and in the same direction as the second component's movement. The second component is positioned downstream in the workflow path, ensuring sequential processing. This configuration allows for rapid data writing and erasure while maintaining accurate reading operations, optimizing throughput in transaction card processing systems. The invention improves efficiency by integrating multiple functions into a compact, coordinated system.
18. The writing station of claim 15 , wherein the read/write portion includes a third component including a second ion head to erase the passive e-paper display portion of the transaction media card with the third component co-located with the second component, wherein the third component is to operate prior to operation of the second component, and the first component is to operate prior to operation of the second component, and wherein the velocity of relative movement between the transaction media card and the respective first, second, and third components includes: the first velocity including a first speed equal to zero and a first direction that is neutral; a third velocity including a third speed and a third direction during erasing the passive e-paper display portion via the third component; and the second velocity including a second direction opposite the third direction and a second speed substantially slower than the third speed.
This invention relates to a writing station for transaction media cards with a passive e-paper display portion. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and precise writing, erasing, and reading operations on such cards, ensuring proper sequencing and movement control during these processes. The writing station includes multiple components for interacting with the card. A first component writes data to the card, a second component reads data from the card, and a third component erases the e-paper display portion. The third component, which includes a second ion head, is co-located with the second component. The erasing operation occurs before the reading operation, and the writing operation also precedes the reading operation. During operation, the card moves relative to the components with specific velocities. The first component operates at a first velocity with zero speed and a neutral direction, indicating no movement during writing. The third component operates at a third velocity with a defined speed and direction during erasing. The second component operates at a second velocity with a direction opposite to the third component's direction and a slower speed than the third component's speed. This controlled movement ensures proper sequencing and efficient interaction with the card's e-paper display.
19. A method of manufacturing an imaging system to image a passive e-paper display portion of a transaction media card according to an automated workflow, the method comprising: arranging a computer readable storage medium reader of the imaging system to read a computer readable storage medium on a non-e-paper portion of the transaction media card; arranging an ion-head-based erase portion of the imaging system to erase the passive e-paper display portion of the transaction media card at a first velocity of relative movement between the transaction media card and the erasing portion, and to perform the erasing at generally the same time as the reading; arranging an ion-head-based writing portion to write, via non-contact application of airborne-charges, an image to the passive e-paper display portion at a second velocity of relative movement between the transaction media card and the writing portion, wherein the second velocity is less than the first velocity and wherein the writing portion is operate after operation of the read portion; arranging a user input portion to receive, prior to operation of the writing portion, user input regarding an identity of the user of the transaction media card; and arranging a module to gather, during at least the receiving of user input, variable content at least partially based on information read from the computer readable storage medium of the transaction media card and to generate the image based on the variable content.
This invention relates to a method for manufacturing an imaging system designed to update the display of a passive e-paper portion on a transaction media card, such as a credit or debit card, through an automated workflow. The system includes a computer-readable storage medium reader that reads data from a non-e-paper section of the card, such as an embedded chip or magnetic stripe. Simultaneously, an ion-head-based erasing component clears the existing content on the e-paper display at a first speed as the card moves relative to the erasing mechanism. After erasure, an ion-head-based writing component applies airborne charges to write new content onto the e-paper display at a slower speed than the erasing process. Before writing, a user input system captures user-specific information, such as identity details, which are combined with data read from the card to generate dynamic content for the display. The system ensures synchronized operations, where reading, erasing, and writing occur in sequence, with the writing step incorporating user-provided and card-stored data to produce a personalized image on the e-paper display. This method enables efficient, automated customization of transaction cards with variable content.
20. The method of claim 19 , comprising: arranging the writing station to cause an imaging side of the passive e-paper display portion of the transaction media card to face toward at least a portion of a writing station that performs the reading, erasing, and writing; and arranging the writing station to cause an opposite viewing side of the passive e-paper portion display of the transaction media card to face away from the at least a portion of the writing station during at least the erasing and the writing.
This invention relates to a method for handling transaction media cards with passive e-paper displays during reading, erasing, and writing operations. The problem addressed is ensuring proper alignment and orientation of the card to facilitate these operations efficiently. The method involves positioning the card such that the imaging side of the e-paper display faces toward at least part of the writing station during all three operations. Additionally, the viewing side of the e-paper display is oriented away from the writing station during the erasing and writing steps. This orientation ensures that the writing station can accurately interact with the display while protecting the viewing side from potential interference or damage. The method may also include steps for securing the card in place, ensuring consistent alignment, and verifying the display's state before and after operations. The invention is particularly useful in automated systems where transaction media cards, such as credit or debit cards with dynamic displays, require frequent updates or modifications.
Unknown
February 11, 2020
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